Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Archbishop John Hughes Memorial Dedication
Cardinal
Timothy Dolan Dedicates Memorial to New York’s First Archbishop
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| Cardinal Dolan unveils Archbishop John Hughes Memorial |
The AOH of
greater New York took part in a historic moment this past weekend as
Timothy Cardinal Dolan visited The Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral to unveil
a monument dedicated to the first Archbishop of New York, John Hughes.
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| Capacity Crowds at The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral |
The memorial
was unveiled and blessed during a Vespers Service in which a capacity crowd of
over 750 worshipers left standing room only inside the 200 year old church.
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| Rowan Gillespie with Hughes Monument |
The 12
foot tall memorial, which features a bust of Archbishop Hughes, was created by
renowned sculptor Rowan Gillespie. Funds
for the memorial were provided by The Knights of Columbus, Friendly Sons of St.
Patrick of Morris County, and The Ancient Order of
Hibernians of New York County.
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| AOH Members Re-enact 1844 Defense of The Cathedral before Vespers |
There was
an particularly proud moment before the Vespers Service began as members of The Ancient Order of Hibernians
surrounded the Basilica in a re-enactment of the events of 1844, where then
Archbishop John Hughes called out the members of the AOH to defend the church
from being burned to the ground by native No-Nothing mobs. Several members of the Myles Scully Division
#1 of Yonkers took part in the re-enactment and attended the Vespers
Service.
Here is a video of the Opening Procession
Cardinal
Dolan spoke of the historical importance of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, while
also speaking of the bright future for the church and its parishioners. “This
church is not a museum”, said
Dolan, “This is Old Cathedral is also a
living, breathing and vibrant parish!” Cardinal Dolan also noted that he was proud to
be wearing a cross that had belonged to Archbishop Hughes.
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| The AOH New York County Board helped raise funds for the monument |
The ceremonies
marked the completion of the 6 year long celebration marking the 200th
anniversary of the founding of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral. Msgr. Sakano, the Pastor of the Basilica,
thanked the many people who made this day possible. “This Church will always be
your home” said Sakano when thanking the AOH.
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| Westchester County AOH Members Gather before Dedication Ceremonies |
